"Don't go there": a warning to tourists at an exotic resort
The US State Department has updated its travel advisory for Peru, warning of crime, kidnappings, terrorism, and dangerous substances. The overall threat level is the second of four, but for certain areas the maximum, fourth level has been set — "do not travel". Authorities warn of robberies, "express kidnappings", and terrorist threats. Separately, the advisory mentions the danger of consuming ayahuasca and kambo in specialized centers, where tourists have faced serious illnesses and deaths.
The US State Department has updated its travel warning for Peru, listing risks ranging from violent crime and kidnappings to terrorism. The overall threat level for the country remains at the second of four levels — "exercise increased caution". However, for certain areas the maximum, fourth level — "do not travel" — has been set. These include the border region between Colombia and Peru in the Loreto department, as well as the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro river valley (VRAEM), including Vilcabamba. The cities of Abancay, Ayacucho, Huancavelica, and Huancayo are also on the list of places not recommended for visits. Authorities warn of robberies, carjackings under threat of weapons, and "express kidnappings". A separate part of the warning concerns tourism related to the consumption of ayahuasca and kambo. According to authorities, after consuming these substances, US citizens have faced serious illnesses, and in some cases have died. Sexual assaults and robberies have also been reported. Meanwhile, major tourist destinations — Cusco, the Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu — are not subject to the maximum restrictions.